News Releases

Dr. David Barnard, President of the University of Manitoba was on the Otterburne campus on April 3, 2009. He met with members of the college and seminary faculty and staff over an informal lunch in the new Student Life Centre.

Barnard introduced himself to those present and began the conversation by speaking about his role as president and the value of educational diversity. “The educational milieu in Manitoba is enriched by Providence, even if not all are comfortable with Providence’s presence. I would like to work to remedy that discomfort.”

Several members of the Providence faculty and staff asked Barnard questions about Providence’s relationship with the University of Manitoba and degree recognition. Barnard responded by talking about the importance of collaboration between disciplines and between schools. “Too often large universities are not good at partnership due to arrogance or self-interest. There needs to be a mutual commitment to our common interests.”

Providence and the University of Manitoba are continuing to negotiate how they will relate to each other and how Providence credits and degrees may be recognized at the university. Both institutions are committed to acting in the best interest of their students.